Anolis ernestwilliamsi
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Anolis ernestwilliamsi faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to urban development and agricultural expansion across its extremely limited range in Puerto Rico. The species is particularly vulnerable to introduced predators and competitors, including cats and other non-native anole species that disrupt its ecological niche. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns and increased hurricane intensity, which can devastate the small remaining populations of this critically endangered lizard.
Habitat
This critically endangered anole inhabits dry coastal forests and scrublands in southwestern Puerto Rico, particularly favoring areas with dense vegetation cover and rocky outcrops. The species requires specific microhabitat conditions including adequate canopy cover and suitable perching sites for territorial behavior and foraging.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in ANOLIDAE
Threatened in British Virgin Islands
Frequently asked questions
Why is Anolis ernestwilliamsi classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Anolis ernestwilliamsi live?
What are the main threats to Anolis ernestwilliamsi?
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